The Maasai are reknowned for their bravery and prowess as warriors. The Maasai shield (elongo) represents one of the many categories of African artifacts blending utilitarian craftmanship with fine art characteristics. Functionally, shields were a Maasai warrior's most important tool in both hunting and warfare. They provided not only physical protection but protection of a symbolic nature. The Oloibon (spiritual leader) would bless warriors' shields with charms known as 'entasim', believed to enhance their protective capabilities and ensure success in cattle raids. Beyond their martial role, shields were prestige objects and symbols of identity. Various designs distinguished different Maasai subgroups, age grades, and at times intricate lineage systems. Each warrior crafted their own shield using exclusively male buffalo skin obtained through hunting. Constructed in a convex shape, the Maasai shield featured buffalo hide sewn onto a wooden frame, with a handle affixed at the center back and wrapped in leather strips. Adorned with red, white, grey and black patterns, the surface of the shield displayed distinctive decorative motifs. The refined decoration of this beautiful specimen relies only on shades of black, gray, and white, indicating its belonging to a young warrior, as red is reserved for confirmed warrior-shepherds (moran). Total height with stand 75 cm.